Chemical Engineering

The Master of Science in Chemical Engineering (MSCHE) prepares students for a career using the principles of chemistry and engineering basics to solve problems that involve the production or use of chemicals, fuel, drugs, food or other products.

Designed for professionals who wish to pursue a graduate degree, the Master of Science in Chemical Engineering is ideal for outstanding students with degrees in biochemistry, chemistry, engineering, physics and other branches of science. The program offers a two-semester sequence of bridging courses for non-chemical engineers (called Chemical Engineering Core Concepts I and II) to bring non-chemistry students up to speed with those who already possess an undergraduate degree in chemical engineering; these courses count towards their master’s degree credits. The 30-credit, non-thesis program includes core chemical engineering courses and electives in polymers, biotechnology, environmental science and electronic materials.

Eligibility

Admission to the Master of Science in Chemical Engineering program requires:

• A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
• An overall GPA of 3.0
• GRE scores

The application package should include GRE scores, undergraduate and graduate transcripts and letters of reference. A six-member admissions committee, headed by the Director of Graduate Studies will evaluate the applications. Students are strongly encouraged to discuss their plans with the Director of Graduate Studies.

Plan of Study

• Completion of 30 credit hours of graduate level courses at the 500 or 700 level with an overall grade point average of 3.0.
• Completion of the following core courses:
  CHE 711 Chemical Engineering Process Modeling CHE 713 Thermodynamics I
  CHE 715 Transport Phenomena
  CHE 717 Chemical Reaction Engineering
• The remaining six courses should be taken from Chemical Engineering (preferable) or other graduate level courses offered through Engineering Online. Students must receive approval for non-chemical engineering courses from the Director of Graduate Programs in Chemical Engineering.
• No thesis or on-campus residency requirement.
• All requirements for the degree must be completed within six years of enrolling in the first course appearing on the NC State graduate transcript. Students must comply with the Graduate School regulations for continuous enrollment or must request a leave of absence not to exceed one year.

Career Prospects

Chemical engineers design processes and equipment for manufacturers. They also invent, execute and test production methods and treatments. Some chemical engineers go into process engineering; others explore opportunities in textiles, materials science, paper science or pharmaceuticals. Graduates of the Master of Science in Chemical Engineering are well equipped for a variety of career paths rooted in a deep understanding of physical and chemical sciences, math and processes.

Additional Resources

For detailed information regarding engineering online programs and how to apply and enroll, please visit the Engineering Online website.